Texas House Bill HB1821

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to climate change planning and reporting.

Impact

In addition to the reporting requirement, the bill necessitates the annual compilation of a greenhouse gas emissions inventory by the same agencies. This inventory will outline baseline emissions and identify trends and contributions from different economic sectors. The implications of this inventory are significant as it aims to guide future policies and action plans designed to mitigate climate change effects in Texas. Notably, the action plan must evaluate effective strategies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and recommend necessary legislative changes for implementation.

Summary

House Bill 1821 establishes a comprehensive framework for climate change planning and reporting in Texas. It mandates the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the Office of the State Climatologist to create detailed reports on the impacts of climate change. These reports must cover a range of areas including scientific predictions about temperature changes, the potential impact on human health, the economy, infrastructure, and natural resources. The goal is to assess the long-term implications of climate change and how it can affect Texas across various sectors.

Contention

Stakeholders are likely to have diverging opinions on the measures put forth in HB 1821. Supporters argue that the bill is a critical step toward proactive climate management, enhancing the state’s preparedness and adaptability in the face of climate challenges. Conversely, opponents may view the requirements as burdensome on state resources or question the overall efficacy of such plans without stringent regulatory measures. Therefore, discussions around the bill could focus on the balance between environmental responsibility and economic concerns, particularly in industries heavily reliant on fossil fuels.